A delegation from the West Africa Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Mission, headed by former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, landed in Monrovia on Sunday in preparation for Liberia’s upcoming presidential run-off election on Tuesday. Accompanying Jonathan are former Burkina Faso Prime Minister Kadre Ouedraogo and members of the WAEF secretariat, collectively bringing their expertise to support a peaceful electoral process and reinforce democratic practices in the country.
In a statement issued upon their arrival, WAEF urged Liberians to participate peacefully in the run-off election, emphasizing the need to avoid any form of violence that could potentially disrupt law and order in the nation. The joint statement, co-signed by Jonathan and Ouedraogo, commended Liberians for the peaceful conduct of the first round of elections held on October 10, expressing wishes for another successful voting process in the run-off.
The Forum advised political leaders to prioritize national interest over personal ambitions, emphasizing the collective responsibility to uphold the country’s welfare. WAEF also called upon the two presidential candidates and their supporters to adhere to the Farmington River Pact, promoting a peaceful atmosphere during and after the scheduled run-off election.
The Election Mission charged the National Electoral Commission (NEC) and security authorities to fulfill their duties in accordance with electoral laws, ensuring credible elections and instilling hope, trust, and confidence in Liberia’s democracy.
The statement underscored the historical significance of Liberia’s democratic achievements in the past two decades, praising citizens for their patriotic and responsible participation in civic duties during elections. WAEF acknowledged Liberia’s notable record of peaceful elections and smooth transitions, encouraging citizens to maintain the country’s legacy of peace, law, and order during the upcoming election.
The Forum, engaged with Liberian stakeholders since July, has been actively contributing to the consolidation of democracy and good governance in the West African sub-region. As the run-off approaches, the WAEF remains committed to supporting Liberia and fostering its development in alignment with their objective. The electoral face-off is between incumbent President George Weah and opposition leader Joseph Boakai, a continuation from the October 12 election that did not produce an outright winner.
